Effective Visuals Tables Graphs Charts Illustrations

Effective Visuals Effective visuals should be simple, clear and easy to understand. There are 7 rules to effective visuals: 1. Number and title every visual in order. 2. Text should refer to the visual. 3. Visuals should be clear of surrounding clutter. 4. Label all elements within the visual. 5. Instructional visuals should clear and concise. 6. Visuals should not be misleading. 7. Avoid spelling errors.

Tables Tables depict statistical and comparison information. Tables consist of horizontal rows and vertical columns. Boxhead is the column heading above the table Stud is the row heading to the far left of the table. Boxhead Stub

Graphs Graphs show statistical trends, changes and comparisons. There are two kinds of graphs 1. Line graph 2. Bar graph

Line Graph Line graphs portray a change over time. Points are plotted along a horizontal and vertical point on the x and y axis. The points are then joined by straight lines. Any multiple lines must be disguisable with different color lines. X axis represents fixed or independent variables Y axis represents values being compared or dependent variable.

Bar Graph Bar graphs are used to compare data. A bar graph consists of an x and y axis and the bars can shoot from the x or the y axis. The base of bars are fixed values whether they are vertical or horizontal bars. To create comparison within categories multiple bars can be made as long as the are colored coded and distinguishable.

Charts Charts depict quantitative, cause-and-effect, relationship among components as parts of a whole. Four types of charts: Flow charts Organizational charts Gantt charts Circle charts

Flow Charts Flow charts show steps of a procedure Allows for organize “flow” Clearly labels each step Arrows indicate sequence of steps Flow charts are read from top to bottom or left to right Flow charts can also be circular Ex) Parasitic cycle Flow Chart Example

Organizational Charts Organizational charts are labeled boxes linked by lines or arrows. This type of chart is used for chains of command. The most “powerful” positions are placed at the top while the least “powerful” positions are placed at the bottom. Lateral boxes are for equal level of responsibility.

Gantt Charts Gantt charts are time-line charts showing a schedule of essential activities from start to finish. This type of chart is typical in proposals as bar graphs. Y axis identifies the steps in the project X axis identifies the chronological milestones

Circle Charts Circle charts show percentage distribution, it is also referred to as a “pie chart.” A pie chart should include at least 3 “slices,” but no more than “7” slices. The biggest slice begins at the 12 o’clock position with the slices getting smaller as it continues clockwise. Each slice is labeled or color coordinated with a key.

Illustrations Illustrations should be chosen according to your purpose and audience. Photographs should be an exact representation and should not be altered to change data. Drawings and diagrams can minimize unwanted details. Drawings and diagrams can be used to instruct the audience on a procedure Ex) A serial dilution Drawings allow the presenter to demonstration different views of a subject, especially subjects that can not be photographed.